Palilgu

“The food and service were great.”

The food and service were great! Most of our dishes were delicious, and everything came out in a timely manner. I was a little disappointed in the side banchan. While the potato salad was good, one of the sides seemed to be plain boiled broccoli with a very lightly drizzled gochujang (or similar) sauce, which felt lacking compared to the rest of the meal. That said, we really enjoyed the Palilgu wings with the soy garlic sauce, and the corn cheese was amazing. Our waitress was attentive and very nice. Overall, a good experience and worth trying!

Maddy Cox

Dec 2025

“The food and atmosphere were awesome.”

The food and atmosphere were awesome. I was visiting family in Chicago when we tried this restaurant.

Sylverita James

Nov 2025

“Palilgu serves modern Korean fare with thoughtful preparation and balanced flavors.”

Palilgu serves modern Korean fare with thoughtful preparation and balanced flavors. We tried the beef tartare, sablefish, tteokbokki, eel donburi, and squid stir-fry. The tartare was a standout - well seasoned with sesame and fresh herbs. and the sablefish was incredibly rich and umami, easily the most memorable dish of the night. The tteokbokki had the perfect chewy texture and portion, comforting without being too heavy, while the eel donburi came out fragrant with crisped claypot rice. The squid stir-fry was classic and satisfying, though less distinctive. The restaurant itself is woodsy and intimate with a number of cozy booth seating. Portions lean small, though the quality of each dish makes it a pleasant Korean dining experience nonetheless.

Bill

Nov 2025

“The bibimbap and pork shoulder are amazing.”

The bibimbap and pork shoulder are amazing! Always a tasty meal 😋

Emily Dosch

Oct 2025

“Went on a Saturday night around 6:45 without a reservation so they only had room to sit at the bar.”

Went on a Saturday night around 6:45 without a reservation so they only had room to sit at the bar. Arturo was our bartender/server. He was so attentive and gave great recommendations. The vibe and food was great. The bartender made the experience even better :)

Asha Latham

Oct 2025

“Go for the Korean Fried chicken, it's some of the the crispiest crunchy fried chicken out there!”

Brandon Lewis

Oct 2025

“Started with happy hour.”

Started with happy hour. The Korean tea old fashioned was a perfect start. Well balanced and tasty. The seafood pancake and fried half chicken were incredible! Must get and will be getting again

Thomas O'Brien

Aug 2025

“Food was fantastic.”

Food was fantastic! I’ve been to a few Korean spots in the city and this by far has been my fav. Will be back for sure.

Nicole Lippold

Jul 2025

“Delicious, unassuming spot for Korean fare with a variety of options for food and drinks.”

Delicious, unassuming spot for Korean fare with a variety of options for food and drinks. Palilgu is located right next to the better-known Ramen Wasabi, but it certainly holds its own with the cuisine it offers. The Jap Chae here is a must-try, especially for any vegetarians, as well as the miso sable fish! There's plenty of seating and service is prompt, with seasonal specials as well.

Hardik Sodhani

Jul 2025

“The food was amazing!”

The food was amazing!! The most authentic Korean food I’ve had in Chicago (coming from a Korean person). 100% recommend.

Hannah Kim

Jul 2025

“Everything was delicious from the wings to the Banchan so much flavor in every bite.”

Everything was delicious from the wings to the Banchan so much flavor in every bite. Will definitely be back.

Emilee Grace

Jun 2025

“Great spot! Was able to walk in for a later dinner on a Saturday. Food was very flavorful. Drinks...”

Great spot! Was able to walk in for a later dinner on a Saturday. Food was very flavorful. Drinks were great. Service was nice! Highly recommend. There is something on the menu for everyone.

Kate Hohenstatt

Mar 2025